Fresh air hood system for mini splits

ABSTRACT

A fresh air hood system for mini splits that can be used with any type of mini split system. The system comprises a damper, among many other components, wherein the damper contains a control mechanism which facilitates the transfer of a controlled amount of fresh air into a room or building. In one embodiment, the system comprises a control mechanism that is manually operated, such as a pull string. In one embodiment, the system comprises a control mechanism that is a wireless control, such as a conventional remote control that transmits radio frequency signals over the air.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This applications claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No.62/568,064 which was filed on Oct. 4, 2017, the entirety of which isincorporated herein fully by reference.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

This disclosure relates generally to heating and air conditioning units.More particularly, and without limitation, to a fresh air hood systemfor mini split systems.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Heating and air conditioning systems are old and well known in the art.Conventional heating and air conditioning systems operate to raise orlower the temperature within a room or building by circulating heated orcooled air. While conventional heating and air conditioning systems areeffective, they suffer from many disadvantages. Namely, many heating andair condition systems require complex, expensive and difficult toinstall ductwork to facilitate bringing fresh air into a room.

In recent years, what are known as mini split systems have been used toprovide the heating and cooling functionality for a room or smallbuilding. However, due to the complexity and expense associated with theinstallation of ductwork in association with a mini split system, manymini split systems are simply installed without the ability to bringfresh outside air into a room or building. As such, while these minisplit systems are effective at heating or cooling a room or building,they are not effective at meeting new and more-stringent fresh airrequirements within the room or building.

Whether used for heating or cooling purposes, mini split systems arecomprised of an outdoor apparatus and an indoor apparatus. The outdoorapparatus, also known as a condenser unit, applies pressure torefrigerant, which is then dispersed through refrigerant lines that areconnected to the indoor apparatus. The indoor apparatus, also known asan evaporator, consists of three key elements: (1) air-handlers, (2)blowers, and (3) an evaporator coils. The evaporator is strategicallyplaced in a building or in a room which provides for more efficientenergy usage.

Mini split systems offer many benefits to users such as: (1) noductwork; (2) easy, straightforward installation; (3) smaller and morecompact systems; (4) quiet operation; (5) increased efficiency; (6) theyallow for area zoning and individual control; (7) they provide betterindoor air quality than traditional systems; and (8) they are easier tomaintain, repair and replace as compared to conventional systems.However, mini split systems suffer from a number of disadvantages suchas the inability to bring fresh outdoor air into a room or building.However, users of a mini split system have very limited options to bringoutdoor air into a room or building, and the existing options are allundesirable (such as running conventional ductwork).

Another complexity and complication in this area of art is that buildingcodes and best practices have placed increased demands on ventilationsystems and minimum fresh air flow into a room or building. As oneexample, ANSI/ASHRAE Standards 62.1 and 62.2 are the recognizedstandards for ventilation system design and acceptable indoor airquality (IAQ). Standard 62.2 defines the roles of and minimumrequirements for mechanical and natural ventilation systems and thebuilding envelope intended to provide acceptable indoor air quality inlow-rise residential buildings. While mini split systems may be utilizedto heat and cool a room or building, conventionally it is difficult, andin many applications and installations impossible, to utilize a minisplit system to meet or contribute to meeting ASHRAE Standard 62.2.

For the reasons stated above, and for other reasons stated below whichwill become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading andunderstanding the specification, there is a need in the art for animproved manner of facilitating the transfer of a controlled amount offresh air into a room or building while utilizing a mini split system.

Thus it is an object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure toprovide a fresh air hood system for mini splits that improves upon thestate of the art.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is toprovide a fresh air hood system for mini splits that is easy to use.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is toprovide a fresh air hood system for mini splits that is efficient.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is toprovide a fresh air hood system for mini splits that is cost effective.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is toprovide a fresh air hood system for mini splits that is safe to use.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is toprovide a fresh air hood system for mini splits that has a durabledesign.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is toprovide a fresh air hood system for mini splits that has a long, usefullife.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is toprovide a fresh air hood system for mini splits that has a wide varietyof uses.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is toprovide a fresh air hood system for mini splits that has a wide varietyof applications.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is toprovide a fresh air hood system for mini splits that can be easilycontrolled by a user.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is toprovide a fresh air hood system for mini splits that provides a costsavings to the user.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is toprovide a fresh air hood system for mini splits that is relativelyinexpensive.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is toprovide a fresh air hood system for mini splits that provides value.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is toprovide a fresh air hood system for mini splits that is aestheticallypleasing.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is toprovide a fresh air hood system for mini splits that provides animproved system for delivering fresh outdoor air to a room or building.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is toprovide a fresh air hood system for mini splits that can be used withany type of mini split system.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is toprovide a fresh air hood system for mini splits that allows a user toeasily control and regulate the temperature of a room or building.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is toprovide a fresh air hood system for mini splits that facilitatestransferring fresh outdoor air into a room or building while limiting orpreventing insects and other contaminants from entering the room orbuilding.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is toprovide a fresh air hood system for mini splits that facilitatestransferring fresh outdoor air into a room or a building while beingstrategically positioned over the mini split system to allow forefficient air transfer and providing a user with the capability to cleanin between the components of the system.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is toprovide a fresh air hood system for mini splits that utilizes a minisplit system to meet or contribute to meeting ASHRAE Standard 62.2.

These and other objects, features, or advantages of at least oneembodiment will become apparent from the specification, figures andclaims.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

A fresh air hood system for mini splits that can be used with any typeof mini split system. The system comprises a damper, wherein the dampercontains a control mechanism which facilitates the transfer of acontrolled amount of fresh air into a room or building. In oneembodiment, the system comprises a control mechanism that is manuallyoperated, such as a pull string. In one embodiment, the system comprisesa control mechanism that is a wireless control, such as a conventionalremote control that transmits radio frequency signals over the air.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a fresh air hood system for minisplit systems;

FIG. 2 is a rear elevation view of a fresh air hood system for minisplit systems;

FIG. 3 is a left side elevation view of a fresh air hood system for minisplit systems;

FIG. 4 is a top elevation view of a fresh air hood system for mini splitsystems;

FIG. 5 is a bottom elevation view of a fresh air hood system for minisplit systems;

FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of a fresh air hood system for minisplit systems;

FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of a fresh air hood system for minisplit systems;

FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view of a fresh air hood system for minisplit systems;

FIG. 9 is a side elevation section view of a fresh air hood system formini split systems, the section cutting along a plane that runs from topto bottom, and through the forward wall and the rearward wall of thefresh air hood system;

FIG. 10 is a rear perspective section view of a fresh air hood systemfor mini split systems, the section cutting along a plane that runs fromtop to bottom, and through the forward wall and the rearward wall of thefresh air hood system;

FIG. 11 is a rear perspective section view of a fresh air hood systemfor mini split systems, the section cutting along a plane that runs fromtop to bottom, and through the forward wall and the rearward wall of thefresh air hood system;

FIG. 12 is a rear elevation exploded view of a fresh air hood system formini split systems, the view showing the lower wall exploded from thelower end of the housing;

FIG. 13 is a rear perspective exploded view of a fresh air hood systemfor mini split systems, the view showing the lower wall exploded fromthe lower end of the housing;

FIG. 14 is a rear perspective exploded view of a fresh air hood systemfor mini split systems, the view showing the lower wall exploded fromthe lower end of the housing;

FIG. 15 is a rear perspective exploded section view of a fresh air hoodsystem for mini split systems, the view showing the lower wall explodedfrom the lower end of the housing, the section cutting along a planethat runs from top to bottom, and through the forward wall and therearward wall of the fresh air hood system;

FIG. 16 is a rear perspective exploded section view of a fresh air hoodsystem for mini split systems, the view showing the lower wall explodedfrom the lower end of the housing, the section cutting along a planethat runs from top to bottom, and through the forward wall and therearward wall of the fresh air hood system;

FIG. 17 is a rear elevation exploded section view of a fresh air hoodsystem for mini split systems, the view showing the lower wall explodedfrom the lower end of the housing, the section cutting along a planethat runs from top to bottom, and through the forward wall and therearward wall of the fresh air hood system;

FIG. 18 is an inverted rear perspective exploded section view of a freshair hood system for mini split systems, the view showing the lower wallexploded from the lower end of the housing, the section cutting along aplane that runs from top to bottom, and through the forward wall and therearward wall of the fresh air hood system;

FIG. 19 is an inverted rear perspective view of a housing of a fresh airhood system for mini split systems;

FIG. 20 is a rear perspective view of a housing of a fresh air hoodsystem for mini split systems;

FIG. 21 is a rear elevation view of a housing of a fresh air hood systemfor mini split systems;

FIG. 22 is a rear perspective view of a housing of a fresh air hoodsystem for mini split systems;

FIG. 23 is a rear perspective section view of a housing of a fresh airhood system for mini split systems, the section cutting along a planethat runs from top to bottom, and through the forward wall and therearward wall of the fresh air hood system;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a lower wall of a fresh air hood systemfor mini split systems;

FIG. 24 is a perspective section view of a lower wall of a fresh airhood system for mini split systems, the section cutting along a planethat runs from top to bottom and through the and from front to backthrough the lower wall;

FIG. 25 is a perspective view a top side of a lower wall of a fresh airhood system for mini split systems;

FIG. 26 is an elevation view a top side of a lower wall of a fresh airhood system for mini split systems;

FIG. 27 is an elevation view a bottom side of a lower wall of a freshair hood system for mini split systems;

FIG. 28 is an inverted rear perspective view of a fresh air hood systemfor mini split systems;

FIG. 29 is a rear perspective view of a fresh air hood system for minisplit systems;

FIG. 30 is a rear perspective view of a fresh air hood system for minisplit systems;

FIG. 31 is a rear perspective view of a fresh air hood system for minisplit systems;

FIG. 32 is a rear perspective section view of a housing of a fresh airhood system for mini split systems, the section cutting along a planethat runs from top to bottom, and through the forward wall and therearward wall of the fresh air hood system;

FIG. 33 is a rear perspective exploded section view of a housing of afresh air hood system for mini split systems, the section cutting alonga plane that runs from top to bottom, and through the forward wall andthe rearward wall of the fresh air hood system, the view showing thelower wall exploded from the housing of the fresh air hood system;

FIG. 34 is a rear perspective exploded section view of a housing of afresh air hood system for mini split systems, the section cutting alonga plane that runs from top to bottom, and through the forward wall andthe rearward wall of the fresh air hood system, the view showing thelower wall exploded from the housing of the fresh air hood system;

FIG. 35 is a side perspective exploded section view of a housing of afresh air hood system for mini split systems, the section cutting alonga plane that runs from top to bottom, and through the forward wall andthe rearward wall of the fresh air hood system, the view showing thelower wall exploded from the housing of the fresh air hood system;

FIG. 36 is a bottom elevation view of a housing of a fresh air hoodsystem for mini split systems;

FIG. 37 is a front elevation view of a housing of a fresh air hoodsystem for mini split systems, the view showing a control mechanismextending out of the forward wall, wherein the control mechanism is abeaded pull-chain that controls the position of the damper within thehousing;

FIG. 38 is a rear perspective view of a housing of a fresh air hoodsystem for mini split systems, the view showing an intake connected tothe rear side of the housing, the intake having a main body which isformed of an elongated tubular member and having a flange positioned atits end that facilitates connection to the rearward wall of the housing,the view showing a damper positioned within the hollow interior of thetubular member of the main body of the intake, the damper connected tothe main body by a hinge positioned at the approximate middle of eachside of the generally flat and circular shaped damper, the view alsoshowing a weight connected to the approximate center of the damper atits lower side, the weight connected to an adjustment mechanism thatallows the position of the weight to be adjusted, the view showing thedamper in its natural and closed position;

FIG. 39 is a side perspective view of a housing of a fresh air hoodsystem for mini split systems, the view showing an intake connected tothe rear side of the housing, the intake having a main body which isformed of an elongated tubular member and having a flange positioned atits end that facilitates connection to the rearward wall of the housing;

FIG. 40 is a side perspective view of a housing of a fresh air hoodsystem for mini split systems, the view showing an intake connected tothe rear side of the housing, the intake having a main body which isformed of an elongated tubular member and having a flange positioned atits end that facilitates connection to the rearward wall of the housing;

FIG. 41 is bottom perspective view of a housing of a fresh air hoodsystem for mini split systems, the view showing an intake connected tothe rear side of the housing, the intake having a main body which isformed of an elongated tubular member and having a flange positioned atits end that facilitates connection to the rearward wall of the housing,the view showing a filter member positioned within an opening in thelower wall of the housing, the filter member being a screen, the viewalso showing a sealing member connected to the lower wall around theentirety of the opening in the lower wall wherein the sealing member isformed of a compressible foam member and facilitates sealing to theupper surface of a mini split system, the view also showing a controlmechanism that is in the form of a beaded cable that controls operationof the damper positioned within the intake;

FIG. 42 is a rear perspective view of a housing of a fresh air hoodsystem for mini split systems, the view showing an intake connected tothe rear side of the housing, the intake having a main body which isformed of an elongated tubular member and having a flange positioned atits end that facilitates connection to the rearward wall of the housing,the view showing a damper positioned within the hollow interior of thetubular member of the main body of the intake, the damper connected tothe main body by a hinge positioned at the approximate middle of eachside of the generally flat and circular shaped damper, the view alsoshowing, the view showing the damper in an open position;

FIG. 43 is a perspective view of a mini split system connected to a walladjacent the ceiling, the view showing a fresh air hood systempositioned just above the upper wall of the mini split system, the hoodconnected to the wall by an intake that extends through the wall andconnects to a vent on the exterior side of the wall;

FIG. 44 is a side elevation demonstrative view of a fresh air system formini split systems, the view showing a wall having an interior side andan exterior side, the view showing a mini split system having acondenser positioned outside of the wall and an evaporator connected tothe interior side of the wall, the view showing the evaporator andcondenser connected by a plurality of conduits, drain lines, refrigerantlines and electric lines, the view showing a fresh air hood systemconnected to the wall just above the upper side of the evaporator of themini split system, the fresh air hood system having a housing positionedon the interior side of the wall that is generally triangular in shapewhen viewed from the side, the housing having an intake connected to itsback wall that is cylindrical in shape that extends through the wall,the view showing the outward end of the intake connected to an exteriorvent that is connected to the exterior side of the wall, the view alsoshowing a wired control and a wireless control that control operation ofthe mini split system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description of the embodiments, reference ismade to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in whichis shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which thedisclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described insufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice thedisclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may beutilized and that mechanical, procedural, and other changes may be madewithout departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Thefollowing detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in alimiting sense, and the scope of the disclosure is defined only by theappended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which suchclaims are entitled.

As used herein, the terminology such as vertical, horizontal, top,bottom, front, back, end and sides are referenced according to the viewspresented. It should be understood, however, that the terms are usedonly for purposes of description, and are not intended to be used aslimitations. Accordingly, orientation of an object or a combination ofobjects may change without departing from the scope of the invention.

System:

A fresh air system for mini splits 10 (or simply “system 10”) is formedof any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to facilitatethe quick, easy and inexpensive delivery of fresh air to an interior ofa room or building as well as and in association with heating andcooling. In one arrangement, as is shown, fresh air system for minisplits 10 includes the component parts of a wall 12, having an interiorside 14 and an exterior side 16, a mini split system 18 having anevaporator 20, a condenser 22, one or more conduits 24 including one ormore drain lines 26, refrigerant lines 28 and electric lines 30, acontrol 32 which may be one or more wireless controls 34 and/or a wiredcontrols 36, a fresh air hood system 38 having a housing 40 with aforward wall 42, a rearward wall 44, an upper wall 46, a lower wall 48,opposing sidewalls 50, a filter member 52, an intake 54 having a mainbody 56, a flange 58 and a damper 60 having a hinge 62 and a controlmechanism 64, and an exterior vent 66, among other components that workin concert with one another to facilitate the transfer of a controlledamount of fresh air into a room or building in association with heatingand cooling.

Wall:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes a wall 12.Wall 12 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and isconfigured to separate the interior of a room or building from theexterior of the room or building. In one arrangement, as is shown, wall12 is a generally flat and planar exterior wall to which mini splitsystem 18 is mounted and to which fresh air hood system 38 is mountedthat facilitates the transfer of a controlled amount of fresh airthrough the wall 12 and into a room or building as is described herein.

Mini Split System:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes a minisplit system 18. Mini split system 18 is formed of any suitable size,shape and design and is configured to provide temperature regulatingcapabilities without the expense, complexity, prior-planning and themany problems associated with heating and air conditioning withconventional heating and air conditioning through in-building ductsystems. In the arrangement shown, as one example, mini split system 18also provides the ability to better regulate the temperature from roomto room while reducing energy loss that is typical with conventionalduct-related systems. In one arrangement, as is shown, mini split system18 has an evaporator 20, a condenser 22 (which is located outside of abuilding), one or more conduits 24 including one or more drain lines 26,refrigerant lines 28 and electric lines 30, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, mini split system 18 iscomprised of an outdoor apparatus and an indoor apparatus, among othercomponents. In one arrangement, condenser 22, also known as the outdoorcomponent or outdoor apparatus, is located outside of a building and/orwall 12 and is configured to apply pressure to refrigerant therebycondensing the refrigerant from a gaseous state to a more-condensed gasor liquid state. This condensed gas or liquid is then transportedthrough refrigerant lines 28 to evaporator 20, also known as the indoorcomponent or indoor apparatus, of the mini split system 18.

In one arrangement, evaporator 20, also known as the indoor component orindoor apparatus, which is located inside of a building and/or wall 12and is configured to evaporate the condensed gas or liquid received fromcondenser 22. In the arrangement shown, as one example, evaporator 20 isconnected to wall 12, at or near its upper end. However, this is onlyone of countless examples of the location and the ways in whichevaporator 20 may be installed. In an alternate arrangement, evaporator20 may be installed in a ceiling, or any other structural component of abuilding or wall 12. Once installed, evaporator 20 allows for therefrigerant to evaporate into a gas as air is blown through coils thatcarry evaporating gas and causing heat transfer. In this way, evaporator20 pushes the cooled (or heated when in a reverse arrangement) air intothe room or building. Evaporator 20 is strategically placed in a room orbuilding which allows for more efficient energy usage as evaporator 20allows for on the spot temperature control.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, mini split system 18 iscontrolled by one or more controls 32. Control 32 may be formed of anysuitable size, shape and design and is configured to control theoperation of mini split system 18. In one arrangement, as is shown,control 32 may be a direct control 33 which facilitates directinteraction with the mini split system 18 itself, and allows for manualcontrol of the mini split system 18 such as a key pad, one or morebuttons, one or more knobs, a digital display, a touch screen, or anyother control mechanism on the unit itself. In an alternativearrangement, control 32 may be a wireless control 34 such as aconventional remote control that transmits radio frequency signals overthe air to the mini split system 18 which includes an antenna, receiverand/or transceiver and a microprocessor, among other components, whichare configured to receive and interpret wireless control signalsreceived from wireless control 34 and respond accordingly. In analternate arrangement, control 32 may be a hardwired control 34 such asa conventional wall switch, key pad, digital display control or thelike, that is wired directly or indirectly to the mini split system 18through electrically connected wiring and/or circuitry. In thisarrangement, hardwired control 34 transmits control signals through itswired connection to mini split system 18 thereby controlling theoperation of mini split system 18. Mini split system 18 may becontrolled by any other manner, method or means.

Many mini split systems 18, like the one shown, include an air intake 70adjacent the upper end of the evaporator 20 through which roomtemperature recirculated air is sucked into the evaporator 20. Many minisplit systems 18, like the one shown, include an air outlet 72 adjacentthe forward side or lower end of the evaporator 20. In this arrangement,room temperature air is sucked into the evaporator 20 through the airintake 70 and is blown out of into the evaporator 20 and into the roomthrough the air outlet 72, after passing over or through the coilswithin the evaporator 20. In this way, mini split systems 18 recirculateroom temperature air while adjusting the temperature of that air.

Fresh Air Hood System:

Mini split systems 18 offers an assortment of great features andbenefits such as the capability of multiple operating modes (e.g.heating and cooling), convenience, increased energy efficiency, andindependent operation, no ductwork, easy installation, and the list goeson. While mini split systems 18 provides many benefits, mini splitsystems 18 also suffers from substantial disadvantages, namely, theinability to facilitate the transfer of a controlled amount of freshoutdoor air into a room or building.

Indoor air quality is a matter of ever-increasing importance. Not onlyis increasing the amount of fresh air that is brought into a room orbuilding healthy and makes a room or building more comfortable, buildingcodes are regulating the amount of fresh-air that is circulated within aroom or building. This increased regulation has required builders toimplement expensive ductwork systems thereby increasing the cost of thebuilding. Unfortunately, due to the configuration of conventional minisplit systems 18, mini split systems 18 have not been utilized toincrease the amount of fresh air that can be brought into a room orbuilding as there has been no convenient manner of doing so prior to theuse of fresh air hood system 38.

When a mini split system 18 is utilized to regulate the temperature in aroom or building, a fresh air hood system 38 provides the ability tobring a controlled amount of fresh outdoor air into a room or building.In the arrangement shown, mini split system 18 is connected to a wall 12and the fresh air hood system 38 is also connected to the wall 12 and ispositioned on the wall 12 at or slightly above the mini split system 18.Positioning fresh air hood system 38 in this manner increases theefficiency of the interaction between the mini split system 18 and thefresh air hood system 38 as is described herein.

Fresh air hood system 38 is formed of any suitable size, shape anddesign and is configured to facilitate the easy and efficient transferof a controlled amount of fresh air into a room or building through wall12 and into interaction with mini split system 18. In one arrangement,as is shown, the fresh air hood system 38 has a housing 40 with aforward wall 42, a rearward wall 44, an upper wall 46, a lower wall 48,opposing sidewalls 50, a filter member 52, and an intake 54.

Housing 40 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and isconfigured to facilitate the transfer of fresh air from outside wall 12to mini split system 18 or more specifically to evaporator 20. In onearrangement as is shown, housing 40 forms a generally hollow interiorthat receives air from intake 54 and transitions it to mini split system18, or more specifically evaporator 20.

In one arrangement, as is shown, housing 40 has a generally flat orplanar rearward wall 44 that is configured to connect to and/or lay in agenerally flat and flush parallel spaced alignment and/or engagementwith the interior side 14 of wall 12, which when viewed from behind isgenerally rectangular or square in shape. However any other shape ishereby contemplated for use. In one arrangement, as is shown, rearwardwall 44 connects at its upper end to upper wall 46 and at its lower endto lower wall 48.

In the arrangement shown, upper wall 46 connects to the upper end ofrearward wall 44 and curves in a generally rounded and smooth mannerthereby connecting the planar rearward wall 44 to the generally planarforward wall 42. When viewed from the side, upper wall 46 takes on agenerally smooth semicircular shape. However any other shape is herebycontemplated for use. Upper wall 46 connects at its forward end to theupper end of forward wall 42.

In the arrangement shown, forward wall 42, like rearward wall 46, isgenerally flat or planar in shape. In the arrangement shown, the planeof forward wall 42 extends at an angle, extending outward from therearward wall 44 as it extends downward from the upper wall 46. Thelower end of forward wall 42 connects to the lower wall 48. However anyother shape is hereby contemplated for use.

In the arrangement shown, lower wall 48 connects to the forward wall 42at its forward end and connects to the rearward wall 44 at its rearwardend. In the arrangement shown, the lower wall 48, like rearward wall 44is generally flat and planar in shape. In the arrangement shown, theplanes formed by lower wall 48 and rearward wall 44 extend inapproximate perpendicular alignment to one another. In the arrangementshown, the planes formed by lower wall 48 and opposing side walls 50extend in approximate perpendicular alignment to one another. In thearrangement shown, the planes formed by lower wall 48 and forward wallextend at an angle to one another, wherein when viewed from the side,the interior angle between forward wall 42 and lower wall 48 is an acuteangle. However any other shape and configuration is hereby contemplatedfor use.

In the arrangement shown, opposing sidewalls 50 are generally flat orplanar in shape and connect to the outward edges of forward wall 42,rearward wall 44, upper wall 46 and lower wall 48 and extend inapproximate parallel spaced relation to one another. In the arrangementshown, when viewed from the side, sidewalls 50 take on a generallytriangular shape, however any other shape is hereby contemplated foruse. However, the triangular shape helps to smoothly guide air flowingthrough wall 12, perpendicular to the exterior side 16 and interior side14, to transition from moving laterally to moving downward into minisplit system 18 or more specifically into evaporator 20.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, lower wall 48 is generallyplanar in shape. In the arrangement shown, as one example, lower wall48, is generally square or rectangular in shape when viewed from aboveor below. In the arrangement shown, as one example, lower wall 48includes a recess or groove 76 that extends around the upper surface oflower wall 48 just inward from the outward peripheral edge of lower wall48. This recess or groove 76 is sized and shaped to receive the lowerend of housing 40, or more specifically the lower end of forward wall42, rearward wall 44 and opposing sidewalls 50, therein.

To facilitate quick and easy, yet secure, installation and removal oflower wall 48 on the lower end of housing 40, in one arrangement thelower end of housing 40 fits within the recess or groove 76 withfrictional engagement, locking frictional engagement, a securefriction-fit engagement, snapping engagement, or any other manner ofconnection that holds lower wall 48 on the lower end of housing 40 whilealso allowing easy removal of lower wall 48 from the lower end ofhousing 40. In this arrangement, to install lower wall 48 on the lowerend of housing 40, the recess or groove 76 in the upper surface of lowerwall 48 is aligned with the lower end of housing 40 and sufficient forceis applied to fit the lower end of housing 40 within the recess orgroove 76 of lower wall 48, thereby frictionally attaching or lockingthe lower wall 48 onto the housing 40. In this arrangement, to removelower wall 48 from the lower end of housing 40, sufficient force isapplied to overcome the frictional engagement between the lower end ofhousing 40 and the recess or groove 76 of lower wall 48. Once sufficientforce is applied, the lower wall 48 is removed from the housing 40. Oncelower wall 48 is removed from housing 40, this provides access to thehollow interior of housing 40 so that it may be cleaned out. Inaddition, when the lower wall 48 is removed, the filter member 52 may beremoved, replaced or cleaned.

In an alternative arrangement, lower wall 48 is non-removable fromhousing 40. In this arrangement, lower wall 48 may be attached to thelower end of housing 40 by welding, gluing, adhering, friction-fitting,snap-fitting, forming the components (housing 40 and lower wall 48) outof a single continuous and/or monolithic member such as through molding,casting or the like, or by connecting the two components by any othermanner, method or means that are non-removable in nature.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, when lower wall 48 isinstalled on the lower end of housing 40, a lip 78 extends outward aslight distance from the exterior surface of the lower end of housing40. Lip 78 extends outward from the outward edge of recess or groove 76.This lip 78 facilitates easy removal of lower wall 48 from the lower endof housing 40.

In the arrangement shown, lower wall 48 has an opening 80. In thearrangement shown, as one example, opening 80 is generally centrallypositioned within lower wall 48 and like the lower wall 48 itself,opening 80 is generally square or rectangular in shape, however anyother size or shape is hereby contemplated for use. Opening 80 allowsair that enters the hollow interior of housing 40 to exit the hollowinterior of housing 40 through the lower wall 78 and enter the minisplit system 18 or more specifically into evaporator 20. In onearrangement, to prevent debris, such as leaves, bugs, dirt, dust and thelike, from entering mini split system 18 or more specifically intoevaporator 20, this opening 80 is covered by or includes a filter member52. Filter member 52 is any device which prevents leaves, bugs, dirt,dust and the like from entering mini split system 18 or morespecifically into evaporator 20 such as a screen, a filter, a piece ofcloth, a piece of felt, a filtering membrane, or any other filteringdevice or the like. In one arrangement, filter member 52 is removableand replaceable so as to facilitate periodic cleaning of filter member52 as well as housing 40 in general. In an alternative arrangement,filter member 52 may be placed at any other portion of housing 40, suchas within the hollow interior of housing 40, or at the opening 74 in therearward wall 44, or in the intake 54 or in any other place or position.In addition, a first filter member 52 may be placed within or connectedto lower wall 48, and a second filter member 52 may be placed at theopening 74 in rearward wall 44, in intake 54, at the inlet into exteriorvent 66 or at any other position on fresh air hood system 38. In thisapplication, the air passing through fresh air hood system 38 isfiltered as it enters fresh air hood system 38 and as it exits, therebyproviding improved filtering.

In one arrangement, when fresh air hood system 38 is installed on wall12, a space is left between fresh air hood 38 and mini split system 18.This space allows mini split system 18 to suck air into mini splitsystem 18 that is a combination of fresh air, which is sucked throughfresh air hood 38, as well as indoor air. This combination of indoor airand outdoor air is mixed as it passes through the mini split system 18.

In another arrangement, sealing members 53 are positioned around theopening 80 in lower wall 48 and are configured to engage and form a sealwith mini split system 18. That is, these sealing members 53 arepositioned around opening 80 and between the lower surface of lower wall48 and the upper surface of mini split system 18. Sealing members 53 areformed of any suitable size, shape and design and are configured to beattached to one of lower wall 48 or mini split system 18, and form aseal with the other of lower wall 48 and the mini split system 18. Theuse of sealing members 53 ensures air flow is maximized and controlledthrough housing 40 with minimal leakage or with controlled leakage. Inaddition, the use of sealing members 53 between mini split system 18 andlower wall 48 also provides some flexibility and give in the positioningbetween mini split system 18 and housing 40 that may occur due tovariability during installation.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, sealing members 53 are formedof a piece of compressible foam, or strips of foam positioned around theopening in lower wall 48. However any other component or device ishereby contemplated for use as sealing member 53 such as a rubber orfoam gasket, woolpile, cloth, rubber or any other flexible orcompressible or fitted member that seals to mini split system 18 or morespecifically into evaporator 20.

In one arrangement, as is shown, an intake 54 is connected to rearwardwall 44. Intake 54 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design andis configured to facilitate the transfer of a controlled amount of freshair into a room or a building through wall 12. In one arrangement, as isshown, intake 54 includes a main body 56, a flange 58 and a damper 60wherein damper 60 has a hinge 62 and a control mechanism 64, among othercomponents. In one arrangement, the intake 54 extends through a wall 12and connects to an exterior vent 66 to allow fresh outside air to entera room or building.

In one arrangement, as is shown, intake 54 connects to the rearward wall44 and extends rearward there from. Intake 54 is configured to extendthrough wall 12. For ease of installation, in the arrangement shown,intake 54 has a main body 56 that is formed of a generally cylindricalshape that is formed of a common size, so that it is easy to installintake 54 in wall 12 as this standard size is a common tool used bycarpenters. As examples, intake 54 is a 2″, 3″ or 4″ diameter pipe,which is common in the carpentry and plumbing industry. In thisarrangement, a circular hole is cut through wall 12 of correspondingsize to the outer diameter of intake 54, which can easily be done. Oncethe circular hole is cut in wall 12, the cylindrical intake 54 isinserted through the hole. In one arrangement, the interface between theintake 54 and the hole may be sealed to prevent air leakage such asthrough the use of a caulk, spray foam, or other sealing member, systemor device.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the main body 56 of intake 54connects to the rearward side of rearward wall 44 at a flange 58. Flange58 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design. In the arrangementshown, flange 58 extends outward from the exterior diameter of main body56 at the end of main body 56 a distance and in approximateperpendicular alignment to the length of main body 56 thereby forming aplanar flange. In this way, the flange 58 of intake 54 connects inplanar engagement with the rearward side of rearward wall 44. Theincreased surface area of engagement between flange 58 and rearward wall44 facilitates connection of intake 54 to housing 40. In the arrangementshown, the flange 58 is connected to the rearward wall 44 by any manner,method or means, such as screwing, bolting, welding, adhering, riveting,crimping, snap-fitting, or the like. In an alternative arrangement,intake 54 is formed as part of housing 40 as a single, solid, monolithicmember that is formed by any manner such as molding, casting, 3Dprinting, machining, roto-molding, injection molding or the likeprocesses. Intake 54 connects to an opening in rearward wall 44 so as toprovide air flow into the hollow interior of housing 40 through thehollow interior of intake 54.

Main body 56 of intake 54 continues to extend in a cylindrical mannerfrom its inward end, or flange 58, to its outward end 59, which is theend opposite flange 58. The cylindrical body 56 of main body 56 ofintake 54 may be formed of any length and can be cut to shape. Outwardend 59 is configured to connect to exterior vent 66, as is furtherdescribed herein. Alternatively, additional lengths of tubing may beattached to the outward end of intake 54 to effectively extend thelength of intake 54.

To control the amount of air flow that passes though housing 40 a damper60 is positioned within housing 40 and/or intake 54. In the arrangementshown, as one example, damper 60 is a generally planar device that fitsthe cylindrical opening in rearward wall 44 and/or main body 56 ofintake 54 and is sized and shaped with the rearward wall 44 and/or mainbody 56 with close and tight tolerances such that when damper 60 ispositioned in a perpendicular alignment to the rearward wall 44 and/ormain body 56 air flow through housing 40 is effectively stopped orpractically stopped, whereas when in a parallel alignment to the lengthof main body 56, air flow through housing 40 is maximized and the damper60 effectively provides no resistance to air passage through intake 54.

Damper 60 is infinitely positional between a fully open position(parallel to the length of intake 54) to a fully closed position(perpendicular to the length of intake 54). In one arrangement, theoutward edges of damper 60 include a sealing member, similar to sealingmember 53, such as foam, woolpile, a gasket or the like, that seals theouter edge of damper 60 to the interior edge of housing 40 and/or mainbody 54.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the generally circular andplanar damper 60 is positioned a distance within main body 56 of intake54 and connects main body on a hinge 62 positioned on opposing sides ofdamper 60. Hinge 62 is any device that facilitates the transition ofdamper 60 between a fully open and fully closed position. In thearrangement shown, as one example, hinge 62 is an axle that connects tomain body 56, however any other form of a hinge or hinging member ishereby contemplated for use.

Control Mechanism:

Fresh air hood system 38 has a housing 40 with a forward wall 42, arearward wall 44, an upper wall 46, a lower wall 48, opposing sidewalls50, a filter member 52, and an intake 54. Intake 54 has a main body 56,a flange 58, and a damper 60 wherein damper 60 has a hinge 62 and acontrol mechanism 64, among other components. Control mechanism 64 isany device or system that controls the amount of airflow that passesthrough housing 40. In this way, control mechanism 64 controls theposition of damper 60, between a fully opened and fully closed positionand any infinite position there between.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the control mechanism 64 maybe a manually operated control mechanism such as a pull string 82. Whenpulled, pull string 82 moves damper 60 between a fully opened and afully closed position and to any position there between. In analternative arrangement, control mechanism 64 may be a lever, a knob, adial, a push-button, a ratcheting mechanism, a rolling member, arotating wand or any other device that is configured to manually movedamper 60 by manual user interaction.

In an alternative arrangement, to facilitate automation and/or remotecontrol, the control mechanism 64 is an electronic device such as amotor or solenoid that is configured move damper 60 through theapplication of energy or power. In one arrangement, the controlmechanism 64 may be controlled by a direct control 33 (such as buttons,dials, a touch screen or any other control) that is associated with minisplit system 18 or fresh air hood system 38. In one arrangement, thecontrol mechanism 64 may by a wireless control 34 that facilitatesremote wireless control through the transmission of wireless signals,and/or a wired control 36 that facilities control through thetransmission control signals through wired communication. In onearrangement, this electronic device is electrically connected to minisplit system 18 through the connection to dry contacts or anotherelectrical connection point associated with mini split system 18. In analternative arrangement, control mechanism 64 may be controlled throughpneumatics or hydraulics or by any other manner, method or means.

In one arrangement, when the control system of mini split system 18 iselectrically linked with the electronic control mechanism 64 of freshair hood system 38, depending on the user-set settings of the mini splitsystem 18, the mini split system 18 electronically controls the positionof damper 60. As one example, in this arrangement, when a user sets minisplit system 18 to a recirculate air mode, the mini split system 18controls the electronic control of damper 60 to close the damper 60, ormove it to a perpendicular alignment within intake 54. In this position,when the mini split system 18 operates, air is drawn from inside theroom through the mini split system 18 and blown back out into the room.As another example, in this arrangement, when a user sets mini splitsystem 18 to a fresh air mode, the mini split system 18 controls theelectronic control of damper 60 to open the damper 60, or move it to aparallel alignment within intake 54. In this position, when the minisplit system 18 operates, air is drawn from outside the room throughintake 54. This fresh air is then moved through the mini split system 18and blown out into the room. As another example, in this arrangement,when a user sets mini split system 18 to a mixture of recirculated airand fresh air mode, the mini split system 18 controls the electroniccontrol of damper 60 to partially open the damper 60, or move it to anangled alignment within intake 54. In this position, when the mini splitsystem 18 operates, air is partially drawn from outside the room throughintake 54 and air is partially drawn from inside the room. This freshair and recirculated air is then moved through the mini split system 18and blown out into the room thereby mixing the air.

In one arrangement, control mechanism 64, whether it be a manual controlor motorized control, facilitates movement of damper 60 to an infinitenumber of positions. In another arrangement, control mechanism 64,whether it be a manual control or motorized control, facilitatesmovement of damper 60 to a predetermined number of predeterminedpositions, such as fully closed, 25% opened, 50% opened, 75% opened andfully opened, as examples or any other predetermined position.

In an alternative arrangement to the manual control mechanism 64 as wellas an alternative arrangement to the motorized control mechanism 64, abarometric control mechanism 84 is used. A barometric control mechanism84, and the uses pressure and forces to control operation of damper 60.In its basic form, barometric control mechanism 84 is a freely rotatingdamper 60 positioned within the hollow interior of intake 54. The lowerend of damper 60 is weighted such that when no forces are applied todamper 60 (such as a sucking or blowing force) the damper 60 hangsvertically, or perpendicularly to the length of intake 54 therebyblocking or closing the hollow interior of intake 54. This can providethe benefit of blocking exterior noise from coming into the wall 12through intake 54, as well as prevent bugs or dust from travelingthrough the intake 54 when mini split system 18 is not operating.

When mini split system 18 is operating, and air is pulled through themini split system 18 (or more specifically through evaporator 20) thesucking force on damper 60 causes damper 60 to rotate upon hinges 62thereby allowing air to pass through intake 54. In doing so, the suckingforce generated by mini split system 18 is greater than the tendency ofthe weighted damper 60 to hang vertically due to the position and amountof the weight. When this sucking force goes away (as in the mini splitsystem 18 shuts off) the damper 60 again returns to its natural verticaland blocking state within intake member.

The manner of operation of barometric control mechanism 84 may beadjusted by the amount of weight 86 and the position of weight 86. Thegreater the weight, and the lower it is on the damper 60 and the fartherit is away from the axis of rotation formed by hinges 62, the more theresistive force. Or, said another way, the greater the weighted damper60 will resist rotating within intake 54 and therefore resist air movingthrough the intake 54. To reduce this resistance the weigh 86 may bemoved upward toward the axis of rotation of damper 60 formed by hinges62.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, to facilitate adjustment ofthe position of weight 86 on damper 60 of the barometric controlmechanism 84, an adjustment mechanism 88 is used. Adjustment mechanism88 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured tofacilitate adjustment of the position of weight 86 on damper 60 ofbarometric control mechanism 84. As the weight 86 is moved downward ondamper 60 this causes greater resistance to air flow through intake 54.In contrast, as the weight 86 is moved upward on damper 60 this causesless resistance to air flow through intake 54. In one arrangement, as isshown, weight 86 is a conventional bolt attached to damper 60, howeverany other form of a weight is hereby contemplated for use. In onearrangement, as is shown, adjustment mechanism 88 is a plurality ofvertically spaced openings along damper 60 that the bolt can be screwedto. In this arrangement, the bolt is screwed to the desired opening thatprovides the desired amount of resistance. In another arrangement, as isshown, adjustment mechanism 88 is a rail that the bolt slides in and istightened in place in the desired position, which provides infiniteadjustment. Any other manner of adjusting the amount of weight 86 orposition of the weigh 86 on damper 60 is hereby contemplated for use.

In an alternative arrangement, a spring may be used to apply a force ondamper 60 thereby holding damper 60 in a closed position while allowingdamper 60 to rotate when force is applied to damper 60.

Exterior Vent:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes an exteriorvent 66. Exterior vent 66 is formed of any suitable size, shape anddesign and is configured to allow fresh air to flow into a room or abuilding. In one arrangement, as is shown, the exterior vent 66 isconnected to the fresh air hood system 38 or more specifically to theend of main body 56 of intake 54 on the exterior side 16 of wall 12.Vent 66 is configured to facilitate the transfer of fresh air into aroom or building while preventing birds, dust, debris and water fromentering the fresh air hood system 38.

In Operation:

In operation, to facilitate the transfer of a controlled amount of freshair into a room or building, a fresh air hood system 38 works in concertwith a mini split system 18. Mini split system 18 comprises evaporator20 and condenser 22 among many other components.

Evaporator 20 is connected to the interior side 14 of a wall 12 and acondenser 22 is located outside of the building. Condenser 22 isdirectly connected to the evaporator 20 through one or more conduits 24including one or more drain lines 26, refrigerant lines 28, and electriclines 30. Condenser 22 applies pressure to refrigerant, which is thendispersed through refrigerant lines 28 that are connected to theevaporator 20. Evaporator 20 allows for the refrigerant to evaporateinto a gas and transfer cool air into a room or building.

A fresh air hood system 38 has a housing 40 with a forward wall 42, arearward wall 44, an upper wall 46, a lower wall 48, opposing sidewalls50, a filter member 52, and an intake 54. The fresh air hood system 38is mounted on the interior side 14 of a wall 12 and the intake 54 isdirectly connected to an exterior vent 66 allowing the fresh air hoodsystem 38 to facilitate the transfer of a controlled amount of fresh airinto a room or building. In one arrangement, as shown, the fresh airhood system 38 is located ¼ to ½ inch above the evaporator 20, or thelike. The fresh air hood system 38 pulls a controlled amount of freshair through the exterior vent 66 and allows the fresh outdoor air toenter into the evaporator 20.

Intake 54 has a main body 56, a flange 58, and a damper 60 wherein thedamper 60 has a hinge 62 and a control mechanism 64, among othercomponents. In one arrangement, as shown, the intake 54 extends througha wall 12 and connects to an exterior vent 66 to facilitate the transferof a controlled amount of fresh air into a room or building.

Next, the control mechanism 64 provides a user with the ability tocontrol the amount of fresh air entering the room or building. In onearrangement, as shown, the control mechanism 64 may be a manuallyoperated control mechanism such as a pull string. In an alternativearrangement, the control mechanism 64 may be a wireless control 34, suchas a conventional remote control that transmits radio frequency signalsover the air to the fresh air hood system 38. The user adjusts thecontrol mechanism 64 to the desired position such that the desiredamount of fresh air is allowed to enter through the fresh air hoodsystem 38. When the damper 60 is open and the fan of the evaporator ison, air is pulled through the exterior vent 66 on the exterior of wall12. This air passes through the hollow interior of intake 54 and arounddamper 60. This air then enters the hollow interior of housing 40through the opening in the rearward wall 44 of housing 40 and thenpasses out the opening in the lower wall 48 and through the filtermember 52. As the air transitions from the intake 54 to out the lowerwall 48 the angled surface of forward wall 42 helps to guide the airfrom a lateral direction of movement to a downward direction ofmovement. As the air exits the opening in the lower wall 48 of thehousing 40 the sealing members 53 help to guide the air into theevaporator 20. When the user desires to adjust the amount of fresh airthe fresh air hood system 38 allows in to the room, the user adjusts theposition of damper 60 through the use of control mechanism 64.

In this way the system 10 is used to facilitate the transfer of acontrolled amount of fresh air into a room or building and all of theobjectives of the disclosure are met.

In an alternative arrangement, when the control mechanism 64 is abarometric control mechanism 84, when the mini split system 18 beginsoperating, and a sucking force is generated, the damper with weight 86rotates allowing fresh air to be sucked through exterior vent 66,through intake 54, through housing 40 and into evaporator 20. When themini split system 18 again shuts off, and the sucking force stops, thedamper 60 again returns to a natural closed position.

It is to be understood that while the fresh air hood system 38 may bemade of a plurality of pieces that are joined together by any manner,method or means such as screwing, bolting, gluing, adhering, welding orthe like. Alternatively, the fresh air hood system 38 may be formed of asingle piece that is formed as a single unit, such as through molding ormachining. Alternately, the fresh air hood system 38 may be formed ofany number of parts.

Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and describedherein, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the artthat any arrangement which is calculated to achieve the same purpose maybe substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This application isintended to cover any adaptations or variations of the invention. It isintended that this invention be limited only by the following claims,and the full scope of equivalents thereof.

What is claimed:
 1. A fresh air system for mini splits, comprising: awall; the wall having an interior side and an exterior side; a minisplit system; and a fresh air hood system.
 2. The fresh air system formini splits of claim 1, further comprising: an exterior vent.
 3. Thefresh air system for mini splits of claim 1, further comprising: thefresh air hood system having a housing wherein the housing has a forwardwall, a rear wall, an upper wall, a bottom wall, opposing sidewalls, afilter member, and an intake; wherein the intake extends through thewall.
 4. The fresh air system for mini splits of claim 1, furthercomprising: the mini split system having an evaporator, a condenser, andone or more conduits.
 5. The fresh air system for mini splits of claim1, further comprising: the mini split system having an evaporator, acondenser, and one or more conduits; wherein the one or more conduitsinclude one or more drain lines, refrigerant lines, and electric lines.6. The fresh air system for mini splits of claim 1, wherein the wall isan exterior wall, the mini split system is mounted to the exterior wall,and the fresh air hood system is positioned above the mini split systemto facilitate the transfer of a controlled amount of fresh air throughthe wall and into a room or building.
 7. The fresh air system for minisplits of claim 1, wherein the fresh air hood system is positioned abovethe mini split system with a ½ inch gap in between the fresh air hoodsystem and the mini split system.
 8. A fresh air hood system,comprising: a housing wherein the housing has a forward wall, a rearwall, an upper wall, a bottom wall, opposing sidewalls, a filter member,and an intake.
 9. The fresh air hood system of claim 8, furthercomprising: the intake having a main body, a flange, and a damper. 10.The fresh air hood system of claim 8, further comprising: the intakehaving a main body, a flange, and a damper; wherein the damper has amain body, a hinge, and a control mechanism.
 11. The fresh air hoodsystem of claim 8, further comprising: the intake having a main body, aflange, and a damper; wherein the damper has a main body, a hinge, and acontrol mechanism; wherein the control mechanism is manually operated.12. The fresh air hood system of claim 8, further comprising: the intakehaving a main body, a flange, and a damper; wherein the damper has amain body, a hinge, and a control mechanism; wherein the controlmechanism is hardwired.
 13. The fresh air hood system of claim 8,further comprising: the intake having a main body, a flange, and adamper; wherein the damper has a main body, a hinge, and a controlmechanism; wherein the control mechanism is a wireless control.
 14. Thefresh air hood system of claim 8, further comprising a filter member.15. The fresh air hood system of claim 8, wherein the fresh air hoodsystem is configured to facilitate delivery of a controlled amount offresh air to an interior of a room or building.
 16. A fresh air hoodsystem, comprising: a housing wherein the housing has a forward wall, arear wall, an upper wall, a bottom wall, opposing sidewalls, a filtermember, and an intake; the intake having a main body, a flange, and adamper; wherein the damper has a main body, a hinge and a controlmechanism; wherein the control mechanism adjusts the damper in adetermined position.
 17. The fresh air hood system of claim 16, whereinthe determined position is either fully open or fully closed.
 18. Thefresh air hood system of claim 16, wherein the determined position is10% open.